These 5 Brands Make Cruelty-Free Beauty Products and Cleaners You Can Actually Afford

When it comes to beauty and household products, the terms “cruelty-free” and “low-priced” don’t usually mix.

An increasing number of beauty and household product brands choose not to test their products on animals. But most of these brands are small and can’t compete with the low prices of larger competitors, many of which do test on animals.

While it’s a great idea to support small companies, many consumers simply can’t afford a $25, 10-ounce bottle of shampoo, or even a tiny $5 bottle of liquid hand soap.

Fortunately, a few companies offer both low prices and animal-friendly practices.

Here are five companies — and two alternative shopping methods — that help you buy cruelty-free without breaking the bank. Plus, check out this list of 100 places to find coupons to save even more money!

1. Method

You may recognize this household product brand from its quirky television commercials and stylish packaging, but Method is also known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and conscious practices.

Freeman products are sold at Bed, Bath & Beyond, the Christmas Tree Shop and many supermarkets. You can also shop their website, which often runs great clearance sales.

5. e.l.f. Cosmetics

When some of my less thrifty friends head to Sephora, you’ll find me browsing retail store shelves for e.l.f Cosmetics.

This budget-friendly line of makeup launched in 2004 and has since skyrocketed to international success, thanks to its low-priced and well-reviewed products.

The company’s line includes lipstick, eyeshadow, concealer and blush for $1 — and lip and eyeshadow palettes for under $10.

Along with its commitment to keeping prices low, e.l.f. is 100% cruelty-free.

It even uses synthetic beeswax and lanolin instead of the two commonly used animal ingredients. PETA recognized e.l.f.’s animal-friendly practices, honoring CEO Joseph Shaman with a “Trail-Blazer Award.”

E.l.f. products are available in several stores — including Walmart, Target, and most pharmacies — as well as on the company’s website. Savvy online shoppers can also take advantage of promotions such as free shipping and bonus items.

Bonus Idea 1: Thrive Market

If you have a large family, consider signing up for Thrive Market, a grocery delivery service that’s been called a cross between Whole Foods and Costco.

Thrive charges a $59.95 annual membership fee, but you can easily recoup the cost by saving up to 40% on cruelty-free products, from cosmetics to sunscreen and baby care products.

Best of all, when you shop at Thrive, you can buy products from many of the smaller cruelty-free and higher-end brands that might otherwise exceed your budget.

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